Hello! Newb question here about $20k-30k 5th wheel

Question

Hello all - Wondering about your opinions on a ~30' bunkhouse in the $20k-30k range.  AFter reading other threads, I've come to the conclusion that there are not really significant quality differences in most of the options in this price range.  And there's some debate about the quality of even the higher-end trailers.  So I'm asking for your experience and recommendation for a good bunkhouse 5th wheel in this price range.  We've found a couple that we're interested in but both are "lite" models - one only weighing about 7k pounds dry.  Would we be better off with a heavier model (my truck and hitch can handle) for traveling across country? I get the obvious pros/cons about weight, but I'm specifically asking in regards to quality / durability.  Seems less weight equals lower quality?

sea_six · Answer

olsond9 wrote:Hello all - Wondering about your opinions on a ~30' bunkhouse in the $20k-30k range.  AFter reading other threads, I've come to the conclusion that there are not really significant quality differences in most of the options in this price range.  And there's some debate about the quality of even the higher-end trailers.  So I'm asking for your experience and recommendation for a good bunkhouse 5th wheel in this price range.  We've found a couple that we're interested in but both are "lite" models - one only weighing about 7k pounds dry.  Would we be better off with a heavier model (my truck and hitch can handle) for traveling across country? I get the obvious pros/cons about weight, but I'm specifically asking in regards to quality / durability.  Seems less weight equals lower quality?What make model and year truck do you have?

reflectionwoes · Answer

Hi, we are on our 2nd 5th wheel in 9 yrs. I agree with your conclusion, lite usually does mean lower quality. As for brands, unfortunately all are going to have issues. The best advise I have had is buy used if at all possible, have the rig checked by a reputable rv center.  One of the better bunks I have seen are the open roads and reflections. You maybe able to find a good used one on rv trader. As for towing, a very experienced rv'er told me try to stay 2K under your max towing weight. IE: my diesel 2500 is rated at 16K, my 5th wheel completely loaded is under 14K  Hope this helps.

olsond9 · Answer

Thanks. I have a 2017 Dodge Ram with Cummins diesel. Rated for 17k towing. I have an 18k fifth-wheel BW hitch. I was thinking I could push the weight limits a little if I’m on the flatlands in the Midwest.

mnron · Answer

Sounds like you have a 2500, if so pin weight will be your limiting factor. Look at loaded weights, not just dry. You’ll probably run out of payload long before you get to the 17k towing capability. As others have said, you’ll get much more for your $ if you can fall in love with a used model. If stuck on brand new, know that you should end up paying 20-40% less than MSRP depending on many factors.
Good luck

wtp-gc · Answer

Rather than dig in on a new thread, I'd rather direct you to the other thread that's still active which basically asked the exact same question.

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